Safety and Health Program- Laser Safety Upgrade Chapter

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Laser Safety

Purpose:

The purpose of this chapter is to insure the safe use of lasers by identifying hazards, providing recommendations for proper use, providing for medical surveillance and for laser safety training for individuals using lasers.

Background:

Lasers present many safety threats, but the most common threat is damage to the eyes. Other common laser concerns include skin damage, electrical hazards from high-energy power sources, chemical exposure, fire/explosion hazards, and exposure to cryogenic materials such as hydrogen and oxygen. Many lasers emit invisible ultraviolet or infrared radiation.

Lasers are classified into four basic categories as indicated below:

· Class 1: Lowest power lasers that do not emit hazardous levels

· Class 2: Low-power lasers that pose a hazard only if viewed directly for extended periods

· Class 3: Medium-power lasers that pose moderate risk and can cause injury

· Class 4: High-energy, high-risk lasers that can cause injury to the eyes and skin from direct or diffused reflection

Procedures:

Personnel that need to work with a class 3 or 4 laser, must obtain a Laser Permit from the Safety and Health Manager. These laser devices require engineering controls to ensure safety. All Class 3 and 4 lasers require a combination of protective housing, area warning signs or remote firing capabilities.

The following information is required for obtaining a laser permit:

· Classification of the laser device

· Wavelength of the laser output

· Power output

· Appropriate eyewear

Personnel shall follow these guidelines when working with Class 3 and 4 lasers:

· Never aim a laser at a person.

· Use extreme caution when working with hand-held laser pointers.

· Do not allow children access to pointers.

· Wear protective clothing such as eyewear and skin protection as appropriate.

· Post warning signs at entrances where lasers are present.

· When working with power supplies, remove jewelry, stand on a dry surface, and work with only one hand at a time. Observe high voltage precautions (see Electrical Safety chapter).

· Control access to areas where lasers are used (i.e., no spectators).

· If possible, enclose the entire laser beam path on Class 4 lasers.

Responsibilities:

Office/Lab Managers are responsible for:

1. The immediate supervision of lasers in the office/laboratory.

2. Providing, implementing and enforcing the safety recommendations and requirements prescribed in this program.

3. Providing laser operators with training in the administrative, alignment and standard operating procedures.

4. Classifying and labeling all lasers.

5. Completing a Laser Registry Form and sending it to the Safety and Health Office. 6. Attending the Company's Laser Safety Training program.

7. Registering for the Medical Surveillance program.

8. Notifying the Safety and Health Office immediately in the event of an exposure to a Class 3 or Class 4 laser.

Laser Operators are responsible for: